Cataracts: Common but Treatable

In the United States, this month is Cataract Awareness Month. Are you aware that cataracts are the main cause of loss of vision among patients who are over 55 years old? More so, more than fifty percent of the population who are 65 and older have some degree of cataract development.

So what exactly is a cataract? A cataract is a fogging of the lens, which blocks or affects the way light enters into the eye. Inside the eye, the lens exists within a sealed bag or capsule. When aging cells break down, they start to become caught inside the capsule. Over time, more and more cells cease to function and accrue, which causes the lens to cloud, leading to eyesight that is blurred or fuzzy. For a lot of people, cataracts are an expected part of older age. Other potential dangers for developing a cataract include ongoing exposure to the sun's UV rays, abnormal blood pressure, long-term steroid use, smoking and eye injuries.

During the initial phases of cataract development, more efficient lights and glasses could be implemented to lessen the vision problems you may be experiencing. At a certain point in the future, however, surgery may be needed to improve your eyesight. More than 90 percent of sufferers who have undergone cataract surgery recover perfect or near perfect vision.

If you are at risk for cataracts and having a hard time seeing in low light, call the office to discuss cataracts with your eye doctor. The prognosis for cataracts is excellent, and we know you want to be able to see well throughout your golden years.